Proverbs Chapter 28

1 The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.
2 When a land transgresses, it has many rulers, but with a man of understanding and knowledge, its stability will long continue.
3 A poor man who oppresses the poor is a beating rain that leaves no food.
4 Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law strive against them.
5 Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD understand it completely.
6 Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways.
7 The one who keeps the law is a son with understanding, but a companion of gluttons shames his father.
8 Whoever multiplies his wealth by interest and profit gathers it for him who is generous to the poor.
9 If one turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.
10 Whoever misleads the upright into an evil way will fall into his own pit, but the blameless will have a goodly inheritance.
11 A rich man is wise in his own eyes, but a poor man who has understanding will find him out.
12 When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, people hide themselves.
13 Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.
14 Blessed is the one who fears the LORD always, but whoever hardens his heart will fall into calamity.
15 Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a poor people.
16 A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor, but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.
17 If one is burdened with the blood of another, he will be a fugitive until death; let no one help him.
18 Whoever walks in integrity will be delivered, but he who is crooked in his ways will suddenly fall.
19 Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits will have plenty of poverty.
20 A faithful man will abound with blessings, but whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.
21 To show partiality is not good, but for a piece of bread a man will do wrong.
22 A stingy man hastens after wealth and does not know that poverty will come upon him.
23 Whoever rebukes a man will afterward find more favor than he who flatters with his tongue.
24 Whoever robs his father or his mother and says, "That is no transgression," is a companion to a man who destroys.
25 A greedy man stirs up strife, but the one who trusts in the LORD will be enriched.
26 Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.
27 Whoever gives to the poor will not want, but he who hides his eyes will get many a curse.
28 When the wicked rise, people hide themselves, but when they perish, the righteous increase.

• His work on Proverbs, written in 1706, highlights the moral lessons and the consequences of one's actions as described in Proverbs 28. 
• He notes, "The wicked are often their own tormentors, while the righteous have peace in their integrity."

• In his sermon from 1863 on Proverbs 28:13, he emphasized the importance of confession and repentance, stating, "There is no benefit in covering sin; confession and forsaking it bring mercy."

• Regarding Proverbs 28:1, he writes, "The wicked are troubled by their own consciences, but the righteous have the boldness that comes from a clear conscience."

Historical Setting and Author Background:

Proverbs 28 is part of the collection attributed to Solomon, known for his wisdom. This chapter was likely written during Solomon's reign or shortly thereafter, around the 10th century BC, when Israel was at its peak and wisdom literature was prized for social and moral guidance. Solomon's authorship highlights his role not just as a king but as a dispenser of wisdom, aiming to guide his people in living righteously and justly. The purpose of this chapter is to contrast the ways of the wicked with those of the righteous, urging readers towards integrity, wisdom, and fear of the Lord.

Hebrew Word Origins and Pronunciations, Meanings of Significant Terms:

• Wicked - רָשָׁע (Rasha') - From a root meaning 'to be wicked or guilty'.
• Righteous - צַדִּיק (Tzaddik) - From a root implying 'just, lawful'.
• Law - תּוֹרָה (Torah) - Instruction or teaching, often referring to God's law.
• Integrity - תֹּם (Tom) - Completeness, innocence, simplicity.

These Hebrew terms underscore the moral dichotomy presented in Proverbs, where integrity, law, and righteousness are not just abstract concepts but foundational for a life well-lived. Understanding these terms helps one appreciate the depth of wisdom offered by the text, emphasizing the importance of moral clarity in personal conduct.

Greek Word Origins and Pronunciations, Meanings of Significant Terms:

Although Proverbs is originally Hebrew, early translations into Greek (Septuagint) provide insight:

• Wicked - ἄδικος (Adikos) - Meaning unjust or unrighteous.
• Righteous - δίκαιος (Dikaios) - Just, righteous.

The Greek terms further illuminate the universal moral teachings of Proverbs, connecting the text to broader Hellenistic ethical thought while maintaining the essence of Hebrew wisdom.

Major and Minor Themes:

Major Themes:

• Righteousness vs. Wickedness
• Integrity and Justice
• The Consequences of Actions

Minor Themes:

• Wealth and Poverty
• Leadership and Governance
• Wisdom and Folly

These themes are crucial for a man leading his family and community, as they guide behavior towards integrity, justice, and wisdom. They encourage a life of moral uprightness, which is foundational for fostering a stable, prosperous, and harmonious environment at home and in broader society.

Modern-Day example of applying this verse and takeaways for modern times:

A modern man can apply Proverbs 28 by striving for integrity in all areas of life, especially in his personal dealings, parenting, and professional conduct. For instance, in marriage, walking in integrity means being transparent, faithful, and communicative, which builds trust and a strong family unit. At work, it means being honest in business practices, even when under pressure to cut corners for profit, reflecting the principle that true wealth comes from ethical conduct. Among friends, one should be a beacon of truth, offering honest feedback rather than flattery, which nurtures genuine relationships. These principles, rooted in Old Testament wisdom and echoed in New Testament teachings about truth and righteousness, guide a man towards Christ-like behavior, promoting introspection on how one can live more justly and mercifully.

Connections to Other Biblical Passages:

Old Testament Connections:

• Psalm 37:21 - Contrasts the righteous with the wicked regarding generosity and debt.
• Isaiah 32:1-8 - Discusses righteous and unrighteous leadership.

New Testament Connections:

• Matthew 5:8 - "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God," relating to integrity.
• James 5:16 - The importance of confession aligns with Proverbs 28:13.

These connections underline the continuity of God's teachings across both Testaments, reinforcing the timelessness of these principles in guiding personal and communal life towards righteousness and away from the pitfalls of wickedness.

Summary:

Proverbs 28 offers a stark contrast between the paths of righteousness and wickedness, teaching that integrity, justice, and the fear of the Lord lead to stability and prosperity both personally and in leadership roles. For modern application, this chapter urges men to reflect on their actions, ensuring they align with divine wisdom for the benefit of their family, community, and personal legacy.

How does my pursuit of wealth align with my integrity and generosity? This question challenges one to consider if the means to wealth are just and if wealth is used to bless others, reflecting the wisdom that wealth amassed through unjust means will not lead to true prosperity.
Am I living a life that hides or confesses my faults? This invites personal reflection on the importance of humility, confession, and repentance, leading to a life of mercy and peace, as opposed to one of hidden sins that can destroy from within.

A Short Prayer:

Heavenly Father,